Being a dog parent is a rewarding experience, filled with love, companionship, and yes, responsibilities. At the top of that responsibility list is ensuring your furry friend receives the right nutrition through high-quality dog food. Experts agree that proper diet is fundamental to a dog’s overall health, impacting everything from weight management and energy levels to a strong immune system and a glossy coat. While those tempting dog treats certainly have their place, a foundation of nutritious dog food is key.
“Commercially prepared dog foods, whether canned or kibble, are meticulously formulated to provide the complete spectrum of nutrients dogs require – proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals,” explains Dr. Lori Teller, a distinguished board-certified veterinarian and past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. “These foods offer convenience, consistency, and widespread availability. Furthermore, they undergo rigorous quality control and inspection processes designed to detect and eliminate potential contaminants or pathogens, safeguarding the health of both pets and their human families.”
As a dedicated content creator specializing in all things canine nutrition for foods.edu.vn, I’ve spent over three years immersed in the world of dog food. To bring you the most informed recommendations, I’ve consulted with leading veterinarians and animal nutrition experts, delving into the essential factors to consider when choosing the best dog food for your beloved companion. Below, you’ll find a curated list of expert-recommended dog food brands, along with insights from NBC Select staff members about the foods they trust for their own dogs.
IN THIS GUIDE:
How to Choose the Best Dog Food | Top Dog Food Picks | Understanding Your Dog’s Nutritional Needs | Why Trust Our Recommendations
Our Top Dog Food Recommendations at a Glance
Further Reading
How often you bathe your dog depends on its breed
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How to Choose the Best Dog Food
Selecting the ideal dog food involves careful consideration of several key factors. Our veterinary experts emphasize the following as crucial when making your choice:
Top Dog Food Picks: Expert and Staff Recommendations for 2025
The following list features dog food options that align with expert recommendations and are personally used and trusted by NBC Select staff for their own canine companions.
Best Dog Food for Puppies: Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
From $18.99 at Amazon
From $19.99 at Chewy
From $20.99 at Petco
What We Like:
- Small kibble size, perfect for puppy mouths.
- Formulated to support healthy growth and development in puppies.
- Easily digestible for sensitive puppy stomachs.
Considerations:
- None noted at this time.
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food is specifically designed for puppies up to one year old. The brand highlights its easily digestible, small-sized kibble, ideal for young dogs. The formula incorporates natural omega-3 fatty acids derived from fish oil, crucial for healthy brain and eye development during this critical growth phase. Furthermore, it includes a blend of vitamin E and vitamin C to bolster the developing immune system of puppies. Available in 4.5-pound and larger 12.5-pound bags, Hill’s also offers a canned puppy food option, which experts recommend as a beneficial addition when mixed with dry kibble.
Food Type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie Content: 393 kcal per cup | Main Ingredients: Chicken, Brown Rice, Whole Grain Wheat
Best Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs: Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food
From $71.98 at Amazon
From $71.98 at Chewy
From $74.99 at Petco
What We Like:
- Easily digestible formula, gentle on sensitive stomachs.
- Features novel proteins, like salmon, to minimize digestive issues.
- Free from common allergens like wheat, soy, and corn.
Considerations:
- Transitioning to a new food may require a gradual adjustment period for your dog.
- Kibble pieces are uniform in size.
For dogs prone to food sensitivities, which can manifest as excessive scratching, digestive upset, or occasional vomiting, Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. This formula is crafted without corn, wheat, or soy, making it more digestible for dogs with intolerances to these ingredients. It’s important to note, however, that these ingredients are not inherently harmful and only need to be avoided if your dog has a diagnosed intolerance. They can provide valuable vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates. To ensure a complete and balanced diet, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach incorporates high-protein salmon (novel proteins like salmon are often well-tolerated by sensitive dogs), probiotics and prebiotic fiber to support both digestive and immune health, and omega-6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a lustrous coat.
Food Type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie Content: 407 kcal per cup | Main Ingredients: Salmon, Barley, Rice, Oatmeal, Canola Meal, Fish Meal
Best Overall Dog Food: Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
From $66.99 at Petco
From $59.99 at Petsmart
What We Like:
- Appealing crunchy texture that dogs enjoy.
- Kibble available in multiple sizes to suit different breeds.
- Convenient resealable bag for freshness.
Considerations:
- None noted at this time.
Royal Canin distinguishes itself with an extensive range of dog food options, catering to diverse needs based on dog size, breed, and specific dietary requirements. Their offerings include both dry and wet dog food formulations tailored for various sensitivities and health concerns, such as food sensitivities and gastrointestinal issues. Personally, I feed my 6-year-old Havanese-Bichon Frise mix, Bella, Royal Canin’s Small Breed Dry Dog Food, a recommendation from my veterinarian. This small-breed kibble is formulated for dogs aged 10 months to 8 years, weighing between 9 and 22 pounds.
Shari Uyehara, former NBC Select editorial operations manager, also uses this same formula for her 2-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Loki, based on her breeder’s advice. I’ve observed that Bella shows a clear preference for Royal Canin over other brands, often leaving other foods unfinished. Royal Canin extends its size-specific formulas to extra-small, medium, large, and giant breeds, as well as a dedicated puppy formula.
Food Type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie Content: 359 kcal per cup (small breed formula) | Main Ingredients: Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Brown Rice
Royal Canin dog food is frequently recommended by veterinarians. Loki, a 2-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, enjoys his Royal Canin kibble from a slow feeder to prevent rapid eating. Image courtesy of Shari Uyehara.
Best Poultry-Free Dog Food: Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food
Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food
From $77.98 at Amazon
From $77.98 at Chewy
From $77.98 at Petco
What We Like:
- Features novel proteins, excellent for dogs with sensitivities or allergies.
- Specifically formulated for dogs with poultry allergies.
- Small kibble size suitable for various breeds.
Considerations:
- Grain-free formula, which may not be necessary for all dogs unless advised by a vet.
Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food is a superb option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies, particularly to common proteins. Research indicates that proteins like beef and chicken are among the most frequent culprits in dog allergies. Dr. Joe Wakshlag, a distinguished professor of clinical nutrition and sports medicine and rehabilitation at Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine, emphasizes the importance of recognizing allergy signs, such as excessive itching and vomiting, to identify the best dietary approach for your dog. However, it’s worth noting that most dogs do not develop these protein allergies, so avoiding chicken and turkey is only necessary if you suspect an allergy or intolerance.
Food Type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie Content: 392 kcal per cup | Main Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Salmon Meal, Whitefish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Peas
Best Food for Active Dogs: Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food
From $84.68 at Amazon
From $84.68 at Chewy
From $84.69 at Petsmart
What We Like:
- Formulated to maintain a healthy weight in active dogs.
- Appealing flavor for picky eaters.
Considerations:
- Not specifically designed for senior dogs with lower energy levels.
Amanda Smith, NBC Select commerce analytics manager, feeds Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food to her 3-year-old rat terrier, Mac. Mac, known for being a picky eater, found this particular formula more appealing than others. Designed specifically for active adult dogs, this dry food includes glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids to support joint health and mobility – crucial for energetic dogs. Purina highlights its protein-to-fat ratio of 30% to 20%, formulated to sustain high energy levels. This food comes in a variety of flavors, including turkey, duck, and quail, salmon and cod, and beef and bison to cater to different taste preferences.
Food Type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie Content: 473 kcal per cup | Main Ingredients: Salmon, Rice, Poultry By-Product Meal, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Beef Fat
Best Subscription Dog Food: The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food
The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food
Starting at $28.00 for 14 days (Price varies based on dog size and plan)
What We Like:
- Convenient home delivery of fresh dog food.
- Customized formulas tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
- Easy storage in the refrigerator or freezer.
Considerations:
- May require a transition period for dogs accustomed to kibble.
- Generally more expensive than traditional dog food options.
The Farmer’s Dog provides a convenient subscription service that delivers fresh, pre-portioned dog food directly to your doorstep. Each delivery contains meals precisely portioned for your dog, based on factors like age, weight, breed, activity level, and body build. Prior to your first order, you complete a detailed questionnaire, enabling the brand to calculate a personalized meal plan that meets your dog’s specific caloric and nutritional requirements.
Bandit, a 2-year-old Maltipoo, has been enjoying The Farmer’s Dog since he was a puppy and continues to eagerly anticipate mealtime. Image courtesy of Sadhana Daruvuri.
Food pouches can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer, with each package remaining fresh for up to four days in the fridge after thawing, according to the brand. Sadhana Daruvuri, NBC Select social editor, feeds The Farmer’s Dog to her 2-year-old Maltipoo, Bandit. “I had friends who used it and raved about it, so I decided to try a trial with Bandit. It was immediately clear he preferred it to his kibble,” she shares. Daruvuri noted a significant change in Bandit’s mealtime enthusiasm after switching to The Farmer’s Dog, as he had previously been a picky kibble eater. Subscription plans start at approximately $2 per day, with delivery frequencies ranging from weekly to bi-monthly (plan pricing varies based on your dog’s individual profile).
Food Type: Fresh | Texture: Soft, easy to chew | Calorie Content: n/a (customized based on questionnaire) | Main Ingredients: Human-Grade (customized based on questionnaire)
Mac, a 3-year-old Rat Terrier, eats his Purina Pro Plan dry dog food from a snuffle mat, a stimulating toy that encourages slower eating and engagement during mealtime. Image courtesy of Amanda Smith.
Best Dog Food for Large Breeds: Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food
From $71.98 at Amazon
From $74.99 at Petco
From $71.98 at Chewy
What We Like:
- Helps maintain a healthy weight, crucial for large breeds prone to joint issues.
- Larger kibble size designed for bigger dogs.
- Good value for the size of the bag.
Considerations:
- Large bag sizes might be inconvenient for smaller households or storage spaces.
Purina is known for employing a team of veterinary nutritionists who contribute to developing their dog food formulations. Their highly regarded Pro Plan line offers options tailored to dogs of various sizes and life stages, including large breed adults and puppies. Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food incorporates natural prebiotic fiber for digestive health, and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A to support skin and coat health. Zoe Malin, NBC Select associate updates editor, shares that her 100-pound yellow lab, Chance, consumes the weight-management dry kibble from this line, which features a modified protein-to-fat ratio to accommodate his senior status and reduced activity levels.
Food Type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie Content: 407 kcal per cup | Main Ingredients: Chicken, Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Corn
Chance, a 100-pound Yellow Lab, transitioned to Purina Pro Plan’s weight management dog food at 8 years old to adjust for decreased activity levels. Image courtesy of Zoe Malin.
Best Canned Wet Dog Food: Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food
Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food – 24 Pack
From $119.76 at Chewy
From $117.36 at Petco
What We Like:
- Excellent for dogs with sensitive stomachs or gastrointestinal issues.
- Low-fat formula, suitable for dogs needing fat restriction.
- Promotes and maintains healthy gut flora.
Considerations:
- Requires veterinary approval for purchase.
- More expensive than many other canned dog food options.
- Cans are not resealable.
For dog owners who prefer to incorporate canned food into their dog’s diet, Royal Canin offers a variety of wet food options formulated and tested by veterinary nutritionists. While it’s a pricier choice, Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food is a low-fat option well-suited for dogs with gastrointestinal sensitivities or digestive problems. It’s important to note that this food requires a veterinarian’s approval to purchase. The formula includes prebiotics to support beneficial gut bacteria, a blend of dietary fibers to aid healthy digestion, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to help soothe the gastrointestinal tract.
Royal Canin also offers other veterinary-exclusive canned food options for specific concerns, including weight loss, digestive care, and joint care, all requiring veterinary authorization. For a non-prescription option, consider Royal Canin’s regular adult canned dog food.
Food Type: Wet | Texture: Soft, easy to chew | Calorie Content: 345 kcal per can | Main Ingredients: Pork By-Products, Pork Liver, Brewers Rice Flour, Corn Grits, Corn Meal
Best Frozen Dog Food: Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato
Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato
From $76.99 at Amazon
From $76.99 at Chewy
What We Like:
- Made with locally sourced, human-grade produce.
- Long freezer shelf life.
- Easy to store frozen pouches.
Considerations:
- Individually packaged pouches may generate more waste.
- Transitioning to fresh food may require a gradual dietary change.
Just Food For Dogs offers frozen pouches of high-protein, low-calorie dog food, making it a great choice for overweight or less active dogs, according to the brand. Their recipes feature locally sourced produce and single-source proteins for limited ingredient diets, including options like venison, lamb, and turkey. Suitable for all life stages, the packaging includes feeding guidelines for proper portioning. Pouches can be stored frozen for up to 18 months, and thawed meals remain fresh for up to seven days when sealed in the original packaging. Once opened, the brand recommends using within five days.
The Fish & Sweet Potato recipe provides a balanced diet for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those needing a novel protein source due to allergies. For those unsure which recipe to choose, Just Food For Dogs also offers a variety pack with recipes like Venison & Squash, Lamb & Brown Rice, and Beef & Potato.
Food Type: Fresh | Texture: Soft, easy to chew | Calorie Content: 26 kcal per ounce | Main Ingredients: Cod, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Green Beans, Broccoli
Best Dog Food for Digestive and Joint Health: Kirkland Signature Adult Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable Dog Food
Kirkland Signature Adult Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable Dog Food
From $46.99 at Costco (Costco membership required)
What We Like:
- Good source of protein to support muscle health.
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to promote joint health.
- Budget-friendly option for quality dog food.
Considerations:
- Only available in one bag size.
Bianca Alvarez, NBC Select associate reporter, feeds her 8-year-old pitbull, Baylor, Kirkland Signature Adult Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable Dog Food. This dry dog food features chicken, whole grain brown rice, and vegetables. “Baylor has a very sensitive stomach, and this is one of the few dry foods she can tolerate,” Alvarez explains. “We’ve used it for years, and whenever we’ve tried to switch, she either dislikes it or experiences stomach upset.” The formula includes probiotics for digestive health and glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy joints. Kirkland Signature also offers a small breed formula.
Food Type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie Content: 393 kcals per cup | Main Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Chicken Fat
Best Wet Food for Sensitive Stomachs: Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Dog Food
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Dog Food – 12 Pack
From $46.68 at Amazon
From $49.08 at Chewy
From $49.68 at Petco
What We Like:
- Formulated for dogs with multiple sensitivities.
- High moisture content, beneficial for hydration.
- Can be easily mixed with dry kibble for added palatability and moisture.
Considerations:
- Cans are not resealable.
I often mix canned food with my dog Bella’s dry kibble to enhance moisture and texture in her evening meals. Due to Bella’s sensitive stomach, her veterinarian recommended Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Dog Food. It has proven to be one of the few canned options that doesn’t cause any digestive discomfort or side effects for her. The turkey and rice stew flavor is Bella’s favorite, but Hill’s also offers salmon and chicken recipes.
Food Type: Wet | Texture: Soft, easy to chew | Calorie Content: 253 kcal/can | Main Ingredients: Chicken Broth, Turkey, Carrots, Pork Liver, Rice, Chicken
Bella, a 6-year-old Havanese Bichon Frise mix, enjoys a nightly meal of Royal Canin adult kibble combined with Hill’s Science Diet canned food. Image courtesy of Mili Godio.
Best Prepared Wet Dog Food: Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley
Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley
From $15.13 at Chewy
From $20.47 at PetCareRx
What We Like:
- Flavor highly appealing to dogs.
- Convenient resealable container for easy storage.
- Can be served as a complete meal or as a topper.
Considerations:
- None noted at this time.
Amanda Smith occasionally adds a scoop of Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley to Mac’s dry food as a weekly treat. This stew-like meal features vegetables, real beef and chicken chunks, and rice. Being a nutritionally complete and balanced meal, it can be served on its own (following recommended portion sizes available on Purina’s website) or used as a flavorful topper for your dog’s regular kibble.
Food Type: Wet | Texture: Soft, easy to chew | Calorie Content: 265 kcal per tub | Main Ingredients: Beef and Chicken Broth, Beef, Wheat Gluten, Liver, White Rice
Understanding Your Dog’s Nutritional Needs
The primary determinants of a dog food’s health benefits are its nutritional completeness and balance, along with appropriate portion sizes based on your dog’s individual size and weight. When selecting dog food, consider both the information provided on the label and broader factors related to the brand itself.
The nutritional adequacy statement, or AAFCO statement, on the label indicates the species and life stage the food is formulated for and how that claim is substantiated (either through formulation or feeding trials). However, information not explicitly on the label can be equally important. The Global Nutrition Guidelines from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) recommend researching the brand to understand who is involved in product formulation and manufacturing. It’s also important to know if the company routinely analyzes finished products for nutrient content, pathogens, and undesirable substances.
“Does the company employ veterinarians on staff, and specifically, board-certified veterinary nutritionists?” questions Dr. Brian Roberts, a board-certified veterinarian and regional medical director with VCA Animal Hospitals. “Brands committed to producing the best diets invest significantly in research.”
Here are key factors experts recommend considering when choosing high-quality dog food:
Adherence to AAFCO Nutrition Standards
Experts universally agree that any reputable dog food should meet AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) nutrition standards. “You can verify if a pet food meets your pet’s nutritional needs by checking the nutritional adequacy statement on the label. If it includes the phrase ‘complete and balanced,’ the product is designed to be a dog’s sole diet and should provide complete nutritional balance,” explains Roberts.
“AAFCO standards ensure that all commercially prepared dog food provides complete nutrition,” states Wakshlag. This statement, deemed by the FDA as a crucial element of dog and cat food labels, is typically found in small print on the back of the packaging.
While AAFCO sets standards, definitions, and policies for pet food sales and distribution, it is a voluntary membership association and does not regulate, test, approve, or certify pet food brands or products. Therefore, claims of “AAFCO approved” are inaccurate.
Ingredient Quality and Palatability
Choosing the right dog food is less about specific ingredients and more about the nutrients those ingredients provide, according to Dr. Richard Hill, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at the University of Florida.
However, the ingredient list does offer insights into nutrient sources. AAFCO mandates that ingredient lists display ingredients in descending order by weight, with the first three being the most significant. This helps determine if a formula is primarily vegetable-based (e.g., corn, brown rice) or meat-based (e.g., chicken, fish, lamb).
AAFCO has established safety standards for pet food ingredients and provides detailed information on common pet food labels.
“Some believe natural ingredients like whole chicken are superior to processed ingredients like chicken meal. However, both originate from the same source – chicken meal is simply dehydrated chicken,” clarifies Roberts.
Nutritional Value and Portion Control
To ensure your dog receives appropriate nutrients in the correct proportions, examine the food’s energy density (calories per cup, can, or ounce) and feeding guidelines, similar to nutrition labels on human food.
“Generally, commercial dog food brands are formulated to provide all essential nutrients for a dog’s healthy life,” notes Dr. Kristin Michael, a board-certified veterinarian at VCA Liberty Animal Hospital. “Each brand and type should have clear feeding recommendations based on your dog’s ideal weight.”
After determining appropriate feeding amounts, monitor your dog’s weight using the Body Condition Score, a visual scale assessing body fat levels (a score of 4 or 5 is generally ideal). Veterinarians use this scale to track body condition during checkups. “A dog outside the healthy range may have underlying health issues,” Michael cautions.
Obesity is a prevalent nutritional disease in dogs, potentially shortening lifespan by up to two years in some breeds, according to Hill. Many obesity issues stem from owners misunderstanding their dog’s calorie needs. “Bag recommendations are often for normal, active dogs, but many dogs are not normal or highly active,” Wakshlag explains.
Dog’s Size, Weight, and Life Stage
Dog food should generally align with a dog’s life stage. Puppies need puppy-specific food until reaching adult weight. Small breeds may transition around 7-9 months, while larger breeds typically switch around 12-14 months, according to the American Kennel Club. “Giant breeds may remain on puppy food until 1.5 years due to prolonged growth,” Michael adds.
Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine advises that healthy senior dogs on a balanced diet may not need food changes in later life stages.
Dog foods labeled for small, medium, and large breeds primarily differ in kibble size for easier ingestion. Brands like Royal Canin offer breed-specific formulas that can cater to breed-specific needs.
“Manufacturers using nutritional science develop diets with ingredients tailored for breeds prone to certain health issues,” Roberts notes. “Large and giant breeds, often susceptible to joint problems, benefit from ‘giant breed’ formulas addressing these concerns.”
However, critically assess breed-specific claims to ensure they are genuinely beneficial and not just marketing. Always review ingredient lists and nutritional content to confirm the food effectively serves its intended purpose for your breed, advises Wakshlag.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Food
What’s the difference between dry and wet dog food?
The main difference between dry food and canned dog food is water content. “Kibble is about 10% water, while canned food is often over 70%,” says Roberts. If ingredients are similar, mixing wet food with dry food is acceptable, especially for picky eaters or dogs needing hydration. Adding dog-safe vegetables and fruits as toppers or treats can also enhance nutrition without excessive calories, says Wakshlag, as long as they still consume their regular kibble.
Dry food is typically more cost-effective and shelf-stable when stored properly in its original packaging in a dry location. Wet food, once opened, spoils at room temperature. Hill recommends storing dry food in a cool, dry place and thoroughly cleaning bags or reusable containers before refilling.
A solely wet food diet can be beneficial for dogs with dental issues preventing kibble chewing or those needing higher moisture intake for health conditions like urinary issues.
What ingredients should I avoid in dog food?
Garlic powder is a common palatant to avoid due to potential health risks, says Michael. Onions, raisins, grapes, and sugar-free additives are also toxic to dogs, although less common in commercial dog food. Avoid heavily dyed dog foods, as dyes primarily enhance visual appeal for owners, not nutritional value for dogs, says Michael.
Are grain-free dog foods better?
Grain-free formulas omit wheat, barley, rye, and corn, often for dogs with gluten intolerance. However, grain-free diets aren’t inherently superior, and may even hinder proper nutrition.
“True gluten intolerance in dogs and cats is rare,” says Roberts, emphasizing that grains aren’t just fillers. “Carbohydrates, especially corn, provide calories, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.”
Hill supports the importance of moderate carbohydrate intake for dogs. Grain-free foods often substitute grains with other carbohydrates like potatoes and legumes, so they are rarely low-carb despite marketing.
Research suggests a potential link between some grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs, but the FDA investigation is ongoing. Experts like Wakshlag are unsure if specific ingredients or overall quality control issues are to blame, or if some dogs are simply predisposed to DCM.
Is a raw food diet for dogs recommended?
Experts advise against raw food diets. “The AVMA discourages feeding dogs uncooked animal-source protein due to pathogen risks for both pets and humans,” says Teller. Commercially available, balanced pet food negates the need for supplements unless prescribed by a veterinarian.
Raw meat diets carry a higher risk of microbial pathogens, antibiotic resistance genes, and anti-nutritional factors. “Harmful parasites and bacteria in raw diets can endanger your dog and potentially transmit to your family,” Michael warns. This also applies to freeze-dried meat “boosters.” Hard bones in raw diets can cause gut obstructions or splintering, leading to emergencies.
Are dog food toppers recommended?
Dog food toppers like canned pumpkin, blueberries, and bone broth can enhance palatability for picky eaters but should be a last resort, not a daily addition. “If your dog eats a balanced commercial diet, toppers are generally unnecessary unless advised by your vet,” Teller states. Treat toppers like treats, factoring them into daily calorie intake.
What should I do if my dog is overweight?
Address weight gain by evaluating food type and amount, including treats and table scraps, and ensure all household members are aware of feeding guidelines, says Michael. Consult your veterinarian to rule out underlying medical conditions and discuss if a weight management food is appropriate.
How much food should I feed my dog?
There is no fixed amount. Caloric needs depend on breed, weight, size, and activity level. WSAVA provides a calorie chart for dogs up to 108 pounds, based on National Research Council data. However, consult your veterinarian for personalized caloric recommendations tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
Meet Our Experts
NBC Select consults experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and experience. We ensure expert advice is independent and free from undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Why Trust NBC Select?
I, Mili Godio, am an updates editor at NBC Select with extensive experience writing about dog-related topics, including treats, toys, travel carriers, and car safety. For this guide, I consulted six veterinarians and veterinary nutritionists and researched numerous dog food options to provide informed and helpful recommendations.
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